Waterborne basecoat, often called peinture hydro, is now the reference technology in automotive repair. Adopted by the majority of manufacturers and body shops, it allows for a very high-quality finish while reducing emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Thanks to its formulation mainly based on water, it meets current environmental requirements without compromising color accuracy, blending quality, or repair durability.
What is a waterborne basecoat?
A waterborne basecoat is a color base whose main thinner is water. Unlike older heavily solvent-based bases, it contains a reduced amount of organic solvents while maintaining excellent application performance.
In bodywork, it is used in two-coat systems, then protected by a clear that provides final gloss and resistance.
Why have waterborne basecoats become standard in bodywork?
The evolution of environmental regulations has led manufacturers and paint producers to develop more environmentally friendly solutions.
Today, waterborne basecoats equip the majority of new vehicles and are used daily in automotive repair shops.
Advantages of waterborne basecoats
- Reduction of VOC emissions.
- Excellent fidelity to manufacturer colors.
- Very good orientation of metallic and pearlescent pigments.
- Great ease in achieving blends.
- Compatible with modern automotive paint systems.
- Compliant with current environmental requirements.
How to apply a waterborne basecoat?
Surface preparation
As with any body repair, preparation remains an essential step.
- Clean and degrease the surface.
- Sand according to the repair system.
- Apply the appropriate primer if necessary.
- Carefully dust off before painting.
Application of the hydro basecoat
The paint is applied with a spray gun in several thin coats. The evaporation of water between coats is essential to achieve a uniform distribution of pigments.
In many workshops, ventilation systems or blowers speed up this phase to reduce drying times.
Application of the clears
Once the basecoat has properly evaporated, a clear is applied to durably protect the color against UV rays, weather, and external aggressions.
Errors to avoid
- Applying coats that are too thick.
- Not allowing enough water evaporation between coats.
- Using an incompatible primer.
- Working in an insufficiently ventilated environment.
- Applying the clears before the basecoat has fully evaporated.
When to use a waterborne basecoat?
Waterborne basecoats are suitable for most automotive repairs:
- Localized repairs.
- Replacement of body parts.
- Paint blending.
- Complete repainting.
- Repairs on recent vehicles.
They are compatible with opaque, metallic, pearlescent colors, and many special effects offered by manufacturers.
Why choose a professional waterborne basecoat?
Professional systems guarantee excellent reproduction of manufacturer colors, consistent application, and great durability. They also meet the technical requirements of body shops while limiting the environmental impact of painting operations.
Thanks to their colorimetric precision and performance, waterborne basecoats have become the preferred solution for professionals to carry out quality repairs that meet automotive manufacturers' standards.
